Comfort Food Chicken And Dumplings

Name: Comfort Food Chicken And Dumplings
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk; 1/4 cup butter, melted; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Essentials

I love making Comfort Food Chicken and Dumplings for several reasons, but mainly because it brings warmth and nostalgia to our dinner table. The blend of tender chicken, rich broth, and fluffy dumplings creates a comforting meal that recalls family gatherings. In just a couple hours, the kitchen fills with an irresistible aroma that makes the wait worthwhile. This dish is not only delicious, but it’s also easy to prepare, perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. It’s my go-to recipe for chilly evenings or when I need a hearty meal.

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2026-02-01T19:05:36.594Z

Every time I make this dish, I’m reminded of my grandmother, who would whip it up on cold winter nights. I’ve adapted her recipe to fit my busy lifestyle while keeping the rich flavors intact. The key lies in browning the chicken and vegetables properly before adding them to the stock, as it adds depth to the final taste. I also enjoy adding herbs like thyme and parsley for a fresh touch that brightens the meal.

One special tip I’ve discovered is to use a mix of both baking powder and baking soda in the dumpling dough. This not only makes them rise beautifully but also gives them a slightly tangy flavor that balances the richness of the chicken. It’s these small twists that elevate the dish from simple comfort food to something truly special.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying with a rich, savory flavor
Light and fluffy dumplings that perfectly soak up the broth
A comforting classic that's perfect for family gatherings
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices

Perfecting the Chicken and Broth

To achieve a deeply flavored broth, start with high-quality chicken broth, preferably homemade or low-sodium. This allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish. When sautéing the vegetables, be patient and let them cook until they are soft and aromatic, about 5 to 7 minutes. The onions should turn translucent, which adds sweetness to the broth. A splash of white wine can also be added during this step to heighten the flavor; just allow it to reduce slightly before adding the broth.

Pay attention to the chicken cooking process. Cooking on medium-low heat allows the chicken to become tender without overcooking. After about 30 minutes of simmering, the chicken should be fully cooked and tender. A good visual cue is that the chicken should easily shred apart with a fork. If it appears rubbery, it may require additional cooking time. Always let the chicken rest before shredding; this ensures that it remains juicy and flavorful.

Creating the Fluffy Dumplings

When mixing the dumpling batter, gentle folding is key. Overmixing can lead to tough dumplings instead of the desired lightness. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just incorporated—lumps are acceptable. I find that letting the batter sit for about 5 minutes before dropping it into the broth allows the baking powder to activate, which results in even fluffier dumplings. This resting time is crucial for texture.

When adding the dumplings to the simmering broth, use a large spoon for a uniform size. This ensures that all dumplings cook evenly. Cover the pot tightly and do not lift the lid while cooking! This is essential for steaming the dumplings properly; lifting the lid can release steam, resulting in denser dumplings. Set a timer for 15 minutes. When done, they should be puffy and cooked through—if they seem wet on top, you can give them an additional minute or two.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Broth

1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
4 cups chicken broth
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dumplings

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
1/4 cup butter, melted
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken and Broth

In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until they start to soften. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Next, add the chicken thighs and brown them for 5-7 minutes on each side. Pour in the chicken broth, add thyme, salt, and pepper, and bring to a gentle boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.

Make the Dumplings

In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the milk and melted butter, then add to the dry ingredients along with chopped parsley. Stir gently until just combined; the batter will be thick.

Combine and Cook

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the broth. Drop spoonfuls of dumpling batter into the simmering broth. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes without lifting the lid to ensure they steam properly. The dumplings should be fluffy and cooked through when done.

Check the seasoning and adjust if necessary before serving. Enjoy your comforting bowl of chicken and dumplings!

Pro Tips

For a richer broth, consider adding a splash of white wine or a tablespoon of soy sauce. You can also experiment with adding different vegetables like peas or corn, based on your preference.

Storage and Leftovers

This dish can easily be stored and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep. Allow the chicken and dumplings to cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. They will last in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain moisture in the dumplings. Microwaving is also an option; just cover it to avoid drying out.

If you want to freeze this dish, be aware that the dumplings may lose their fluffy texture after freezing. To best preserve the quality, consider freezing the chicken and broth separately from the dumplings. When ready to enjoy, you can reheat the broth and prepare fresh dumplings for a delightful meal without sacrificing texture.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize the recipe based on your preferences or what you have on hand! Adding vegetables like peas, green beans, or corn can enhance the flavor and nutritional value. Simply toss them in with the carrots and celery at the beginning for added color and texture. For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the broth.

In terms of dumpling variations, you can swap out all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a heartier option, or to make them gluten-free, use a gluten-free baking blend. Herbs can be customized too—dill or chives can replace parsley for a different flavor profile. Experimenting with different ingredients keeps this comforting dish fresh and exciting with each preparation!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breast. However, thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the chicken and broth ahead, and make the dumplings shortly before serving for the best texture.

→ What can I substitute for all-purpose flour?

You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend if you need a gluten-free option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove, adding a little water if needed to loosen.